Desktop Speaker Amps: Is Class AB becoming obsolete?

[JVerbit]

So I made a different post that sort of is my first step in answering this question:

Inappropriately smol Amps Powering Big Speakers

For the longest time I was of the mind that I would need amplification that is rather large and Class A/B. But then I watched Z Reviews and thought about it. I became active in this forum and I’ve had conversations with other forum goers. Recently I acted on my thinking and then this happened: [IMG_1146] I got the SMSL AD18, added Bluetooth 5.0, and am powering the Klipsch R-620F. Guess what, it sounds real good. I’m still kind of shocked too because part of me really wanted to be let down s…

I am using fairly efficient (96 dBW, 8 ohm) Klipsch towers with a Class D SMSL AD-18 and am happy with the results. Because they are efficient, I do not need to go into massive power amps to get a good volume and sound out of the towers.

But I still intend to make some changes to see what changes. Over the holidays I may build a Class A amp I have had my eyes on for a bit now to hear the differences. Will report back if I do this.